Chennai: He is one of the successful filmmakers in the southern film industry but even SS Rajamouli is having a tough time zeroing in on the cast for his upcoming Telugu period-drama 'Baahubali'.

He has already finalised Rana Daggubati, Prabhas and Anushka Shetty for the lead roles. The pre-production work is underway in full swing, while the regular shooting is expected to begin later this month.

"You should understand that 'suitability' is of paramount importance when it comes to casting. That doesn't mean talent and hard work are less important. We need all three to do justice to the film," posted Rajamouli on his Twitter page.

Rana Daggubati, Prabhas and Anushka Shetty to play leading roles in the Telugu period drama 'Baahubali'.

Much before 'Baahubali' was launched, Rajamouli announced that he would need to cast a large number of new actors. He even requested people to send applications for the same.

"Short-listing 2,000 people from 13,000 was a daunting task. We just couldn't handle more, so had to block. Apologies there! Over the last month short listed about 2,000 applicants and asked them to attend auditions. Surprisingly, half of them didn't turn up," posted Rajamouli on his Twitter page.

"After auditions, selected about 50 guys and started training. After two days, half of them disappeared," he further posted.

He had to send back a few because he didn't find them suitable.

The film will be produced by Shobu Yarlagadda and Prasad Devineni. MM Keeravani will compose music for the film, which will have cinematography by KK Senthil Kumar.